In a recent revelation, former Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini, who recently bid farewell to his illustrious football career, has singled out Victor Osimhen as one of the most challenging adversaries he faced during his active playing days.
The 39-year-old Chiellini, known for his defensive prowess, shared insights into his encounters with top strikers throughout his extensive career in Serie A, which included stints with clubs such as Juventus, Fiorentina, and Livorno.
Reflecting on the difficulty posed by Osimhen, Chiellini stated, “Which attacker bothered me more? Honestly, I marked Lautaro well, Osimhen a little worse. I was struggling more.”
He further elaborated on strategies to contain Osimhen, offering tactical advice: “How do you stop Osimhen? You let him take the ball towards you, which isn’t dangerous. Even if he turns, he doesn’t bother me, and when he gets to the area, I’m on top of him and don’t let him breathe.”
Chiellini acknowledged the challenge presented by Osimhen, particularly in the latter stages of his career, noting, “I was at the end of my career with both of them; after the knee operation, I suffered from it and I couldn’t hold it any longer.”
This recognition from a Juventus legend adds another feather to Victor Osimhen’s cap, showcasing his impact and threat on the pitch, even against seasoned defenders like Chiellini.
As Chiellini embarks on the next chapter post-retirement, his commendation of Osimhen solidifies the Nigerian striker’s reputation as a formidable force in the world of football.
